There's no standardized test for street-smarts and that sort of experience will not necessarily earn students a ticket to the college of their choice. But in the late 1960s, curbside know-how helped a group of West Side gang members get a full ride to Dartmouth College.

Many people head to the beach, area pools and the city’s cooling centers amidst the heat. Another popular spot is the Cook County clerk’s office. Last month the clerk issued more than 800 licenses for civil unions in the county, over half the licenses issued across the state.

There has been a lot for supporters of gay marriage to celebrate this year, including a new law that permits same-sex nuptials in New York.Back in February, the Justice Department said it would no longer defend the federal law that restricts marriage to heterosexual couples, citing doubts about its

Illinois Gov. Pat Quinn has taken his work to Israel this week, going on what his office is calling an educational mission. Before he left, Quinn told reporters his trip would mostly focus on Israel's green technology efforts."

A new federal lawsuit alleges the physical test required of Chicago firefighters discriminates against women.The lawsuit filed in federal court in Chicago Tuesday alleges that the tests firefighter candidates are required to take are a major impediment to women.